How Adopting a Pet Might Just Save Your Life

Our furry friends can give back as much as we give them.

They’ll Reduce Your Blood Pressure

The unconditional love and admiration from a pet helps reduce its owner’s stress levels, leading to lower blood pressure.

According to the American Heart Association high blood pressure is incredibly common, affecting around 85 million Americans. But make no mistake—it’s deadly.

Blood pressure issues can lead to strokes, heart attacks, hardened arteries, and even blindness. Left untreated, it can cause an early death.

One study by the Minnesota Stroke Institute showed that owning a cat can reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke by nearly a third by lowering blood pressure. The study followed 4,435 cat owners for 20 years, documenting their rate of cardiovascular issues as compared to the general population.

The study linked the participants’ good heart health with the reduced stress that comes with pet ownership. Stress, and the inflammation it causes, is suspected to be a major cause of high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease, and so a soothing cuddle with your pet can help dial back out-of-control blood pressure.